The Principal Judge of the High Court of Uganda, Hon. Lady Justice Jane Frances Abodo, has commended Nkumba University for establishing what she described as one of the most advanced moot courts in the country, noting that the facility marks a significant step towards improving the quality of legal training and justice delivery in Uganda.
Speaking during the commissioning of the university’s newly constructed moot court today, Justice Abodo said the facility meets the required standards for legal training and reflects a deliberate investment in the future of the judiciary. “This kind of investment directly influences the quality of justice delivery,” she said. “What happens in our courts is, to a large extent, shaped by the quality of lawyers trained in institutions such as this. It is a step in the right direction for the future of justice in Uganda.”
Justice Abodo noted that although Uganda continues to produce a growing number of law graduates, gaps in practical training remain evident in courtroom advocacy, case management, and, at times, the delivery of justice. She emphasized that moot courts play a critical role in bridging this gap by equipping students with hands-on litigation skills. “A well-trained advocate assists the court in arriving at a just and fair decision. But when training is inadequate, it reflects in how cases are handled,” she observed. “Moot courts help students refine their argumentation, professionalism, and ethical conduct before they enter real practice.”
Drawing from her own legal training experience, Justice Abodo urged students to approach moot sessions with utmost professionalism and discipline. “Do not treat moot court as a casual exercise,” she cautioned. “The habits you cultivate here will define the kind of lawyer you become. Professionalism, clarity, and respect for court processes are not optional—they are indispensable.”
She further described the legal profession as a “calling” that demands integrity and responsibility, reminding students that lawyers are custodians of people’s rights and freedoms. “The practice of law is not a joke. It demands integrity, discipline, and a deep sense of responsibility,” she said.
The Principal Judge also called on lecturers at the School of Law to strengthen mentorship beyond the classroom and ensure graduates are competent, ethical and practice-ready. She pledged the Judiciary’s continued support towards initiatives aimed at improving legal education and standards in the country. “It is in our collective interest, both as the Judiciary and academia, to ensure that graduates are not only knowledgeable but also competent and ethical,” she added.
In response to the advice Chancellor’s earlier request, Hon. Lady Justice Abodo granted permission for the University to explore the possibility of the facility being gazetted to handle court sessions, particularly to ease case backlog pressures on near by courts.
Nkumba University Vice Chancellor, Jude Lubega, said the establishment of the moot court aligns with reforms under the competence-based curriculum as guided by the National Council for Higher Education.
“Today’s Moot Court launch speaks directly to a broader transformation in higher education, our transition towards a competence-based curriculum,” Prof. Lubega said. “The world no longer measures education solely by what one knows, but increasingly by what one can do. In the field of law, this distinction is even more critical.”
He described the moot court as “a laboratory of legal practice” where students will develop advocacy skills, confidence and ethical judgment. “The moot court is not just a symbolic space; it is where knowledge meets application. These court simulations are more less the same as what happens in the real court setup.” He added.
Prof. Lubega also urged the School of Law to embrace digital innovation by integrating virtual simulations and live-streaming moot proceedings to align with global trends in legal practice. “Court proceedings, legal research, and dispute resolution are increasingly moving into virtual and hybrid spaces. This facility should not remain confined within physical walls,” he said.
University officials said the project has been years in the making, driven by sustained advocacy from the School of Law leadership to enhance practical legal training.
The facility is expected to provide students with a simulated courtroom environment where they can practice litigation, sharpen research and oratory skills, and gain hands-on experience before joining the legal profession.
Globally, moot courts have long been central to legal education, offering students exposure to mock trials and appellate arguments. In Uganda, however, such facilities have remained limited, particularly within private universities, making Nkumba University’s investment a notable milestone in advancing legal training.
The Principal Judge officially commissioned the facility, expressing optimism that it will not only benefit Nkumba University students but also contribute to strengthening legal practice and justice delivery across the country.
Discussion about this post